Comments - Interesting scene from the kabuki play "Kiichi Hogen sanryaku no maki" at the Ichimura Theater. The warrior Kiichi Hogen fought for the Heike, but his family had alliances to the Genji. When he retired, Kiichi did not know which clan should receive the three secret books he had written on military strategy. The young Ushiwakamaru (later Minamoto no Yoshitsune) of the Genji clan, has joined his household in disguise as the yakko or footman Torazo to obtain the books. Here, Kiichi sits on a bench in his garden, glaring angrily at Torazo, who kneels at lower left holding one of documents in lacquer box in his hand. In the center, the yakko Chienai, who is actually the samurai Yoshioka Kisanta, stares at his fellow servant wide-eyed. Behind him, a fence encloses blossoming chrysanthemums, the petals supported with white paper collars. From left, the actors are Bando Shuka I, Ichimura Uzaemon XII, and Sawamura Sojuro V. A handsome design with a nicely detailed setting.

Artist - Kuniyoshi (1797 - 1861)

Image Size - 14" x 29 3/4"

Condition - This print with good detail as shown. Three separate panels. Slight thinning along vertical folds at sides, a few holes, repaired. A few creases, slight rubbing at edges. Please see photos for details.